Effect of Content and Surface Modification of Fique Fibers on the Properties of a Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)-Al/Fique Composite.

This work presents the physical-thermal and mechanical characterization of a low-density polyethylene (LDPE)-Al matrix composite material that was obtained from reinforcing recycled (post-consumer) long-life Tetra Pak packages with fique natural fibers from southwestern Colombia. The fique was subjected to three chemical treatments to modify its surface (alkalinization, silanization and pre-impregnation with polyethylene) to increase the quality of its interfaces. Additionally, panels with 10%, 20%, and 30% / of fiber were manufactured by the hot compression molding.